Hyundai to launch Creta SUV, Genesis G90 sedan at MIAS

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Philippines, will fortify its vehicle lineup with the launch of the Creta subcompact SUV, and the Genesis G90. The two all-new cars will debut at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) on March 30. HARI President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo sees the Creta and Genesis G90 as essential to maintaining the company’s strong performance in 2016 and rolling into 2017, with its 2017 sales already up by 15 percent from the previous year.

The Creta is Hyundai’s entry into the increasingly popular subcompact SUV category, competing with the likes of the Ford EcoSport and Honda BR-V. The Creta is aptly described as the “Baby Tucson,” with similar lines to the brand’s top-selling SUV. The Fluidic Sculpture styling includes the hexagonal grille and prominent creases on the car’s flanks. Underneath the new body is a chassis reinforced with high-strength steel. This improves the car’s crash safety as well as enhances its handling and ride comfort. The interior will feature seating for five. The driver’s chair will have height adjustment. Rear package tray, seatback pockets and push button engine-start will be available.

The Creta may become the first in its class to feature a diesel engine. Two diesels are available internationally: a 1.6-liter common-rail diesel with 128ps and 260Nm, and a 1.4 –liter version with 90ps and 220Nm. Here’s hoping we get the 1.6. The 1.6 can mate to a six-speed automatic transmission, channeling drive to the front wheels.

Creta clocks in at a compact 4270mm x 1780mm width, on a 2590mm wheelbase. Wheels will be 16-inchers with 205/65 series rubber.

At the other end of the automotive spectrum, Hyundai will be launching its flagship Genesis G90 sedan. The Genesis G90 was designed to compete with the world’s top luxury brands in performance and comfort. At its launch at the Geneva Motor Show, the G90

The exterior follows an “Athletic Elegance” design theme. The car is designed as the genesis of a new luxury brand. A ‘crest’ grille and new Genesis emblem will be the showcase here, flanked by LED headlamps that wrap around the corners of the hood.

Genesis G90 will have available Italian or Nappa leather interior and real wood trim. The brand promises best-in-class refinement particularly in the suppression of noise, vibration and harshness. Available engines at the car’s international launch are the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 with 370ps and 510Nm, a naturally-aspirated 3.8-liter V6 with 315ps and 397Nm, and a 5.0-liter V8 god for 425ps and 519Nm. The V8 is the quickest, capable of a 0-100kph strint in 5.7 seconds. The Genesis G90 is rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

The launch of the Creta and the Genesis G90 are indications that HARI is planning to go after new market segments with gusto.